MRA to Gov. Bago: Reopen Badegi 90.1 FM, your order stifles democracy - ITREALMS

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Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has strongly condemned the closure of Badegi 90.1 FM, a private radio station in Minna, Niger State, by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago. MRA described the action as "illegal, arbitrary, and a dangerous assault on broadcasting freedom" reports ITREALMS.

In a press statement, MRA's Programme Officer, John Gbadamosi, noted that the Governor's action constitutes an abuse of office and a breach of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers. 

He argued that criticism of the government is not a crime and is a constitutional right and duty imposed on the media.

MRA has called on Governor Bago to immediately and unconditionally reopen Badegi 90.1 FM and issue a public apology to the station's proprietors, management, staff, and listeners. The organization also urged the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to assert its independence and uphold the independence of broadcast media under its regulatory purview.

Gbadamosi emphasized that the Governor's actions amount to a violation of the constitutional right to freedom of expression and the corollary rights of the people to receive ideas and information. 

He warned that failure to reverse the directive would lead to appropriate action to hold the Governor accountable.

MRA stressed that the regulation of broadcasting in Nigeria is not under the Governor's control or authority, and his actions constitute an abuse of power and a breach of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers. 

The organization advised the Governor to concentrate on performing his functions and carrying out his responsibilities in accordance with the Constitution, rather than interfering with the media's constitutional duties.

Uj. N. Dominic/Editor